A Texas veterinarian accused of keeping a dog alive for blood transfusions was arrested Wednesday on an animal-cruelty charge.

According to the Star-Telegram, Jamie and Marian Harris said Millard Lucien Tierce, owner of Camp Bowie Animal Clinic in Fort Worth, told them that their dog, Sid, had a congenital spinal defect and needed to be euthanized. The couple agreed to the procedure last fall and allowed the clinic to handle the burial.

But on April 22, the Harrises received a call from a former clinic employee who said Sid was still alive and being used for blood transfusions.